Burton C of E Primary School

Computing

E-SAFETY at Burton

The internet is a fantastic tool if it is used correctly – we must understand the risks!

Ever thought how odd your online life is?

Ever thought what might go wrong?

Check out ‘Can I be your friend?’ on YouTube

Every child is different but may use the same online sites. Children talk to each other and enthuse about what they do online. Technology is moving so fast and as parents/carers you need to keep up and keep an open mind. Join in and let your child educate you whilst you keep them safe. The most important part of internet safety is conversation and communication.

Remember the 3 C’s

Content – is it age appropriate, legal, what our your children exposed to and allowing others o see about themselves?

Conduct – is there risk of harm from interaction from others online? Is there risk of harm from interactions between one another online?

Contact – contact from unknown persons, young people openly engaging with strangers

Games and apps

Most games/apps have appropriate context for age, however it is the conduct and contact that poses a risk. It is the games/apps that allow interaction between other users that increases potential risks to children and young people.

There are many games out there that are not suitable for young people and can often contain very violent or sexualised scenes, references or context.

Look for the Pan-European Game Information (PEGI)

Checklist for parents

Keep up to date about popular websites/apps/games

Always check the privacy settings and make your child aware of the purpose of these (every social media site is never set up with high privacy settings – you need to change these)

Check terms and conditions (sites can rent out your photos and other information) – you accept these when you register

Some apps/games are based on your location which allows people to know where you are at certain times

Bear in mind that some are webcam-based so people are able to see one another

Don’t put photos on social media sites that give information about location (i.e. school logo on uniform)

Most broadband providers can put security settings in place for you if you contact them

Set up parental settings on computers and devices

Always view YouTube videos before allowing your child to watch as it may not be what you expected

Some sites that are not based in the UK may have different standards/ratings to us

Be aware of language used online (e.g. pos = parent over shoulder)

Cyber bullying

Significant concern amongst young people

Usually harsher comments as it is not face to face so people feel that they can get away with it